About Sand & Saddles

Sand & Saddles exists because of David Murdoch. His vision, his decades of collecting and preserving, and his love for the history of the Chisholm Trail created something irreplaceable. Every ticket sold, every sponsor who steps up, and every volunteer who shows up is helping ensure his life's work continues to stand — and that the stories of the Texas frontier are never forgotten.

David Murdoch was a man of rare depth — a pastor, a published author, a certified counselor, and a rancher who once stood as the largest breeder of Arabian horses in the United States. His name was known around the world, not for seeking recognition, but for a lifetime of pouring himself into the things that mattered most: faith, family, community, and the preservation of Texas history.

As Senior Chaplain for the Johnson County Sheriff's Office, David didn't just serve — he built. He implemented chaplain programs for law enforcement agencies across the region, bringing care and counsel to those who protect and serve. He was a member of the Texas Land & Cattle Raisers Association, and was recognized as Citizen of the Year, Man of the Year in Cleburne, and recipient of the Lifetime Achievement Award from the Academy of Western Artists — among numerous other honors.

"Honoring the Legacy of David Murdoch — the heart behind the Chisholm Trail Outdoor Museum."